“The Government remains committed to a clear and reliable path forward for the project.

“Today, we have instructed the National Energy Board (NEB) to reconsider its recommendations, taking into account the effects of project-related marine shipping. The NEB will be required to complete a thorough and prompt review and deliver its report within 22 weeks. The Government:

Will present to the NEB recent government actions to protect the southern resident killer whale and to implement the Oceans Protection Plan; and

Intends to appoint a special marine technical advisor to the NEB. We are committed to ensuring that the NEB has the expertise and capacity to deliver the best advice to the Government.

“No relationship is more important to the Government and to Canada than the one with Indigenous peoples. We are pleased that the NEB will provide participant funding so that the views of Indigenous groups are well represented in the Board’s consideration of marine issues.

“Our Government remains committed to finding the best path forward following the decision of the Federal Court of Appeal in consultation with Indigenous groups.

“Today’s announcement represents one important step towards addressing issues raised by the Federal Court of Appeal while continuing to deliver the highest levels of marine protection that Canadians expect.”